Two Police Service of Northern Ireland officers have been dismissed for behaviour described as abhorrent and completely dismissive of any respect towards colleagues. Chief Constable Jon Boutcher disclosed the move during a Northern Ireland Policing Board meeting on Thursday.

He said three officers in total were dismissed the previous Friday, two for that specific reason. The chief constable said the force is demonstrating a no-tolerance approach to any misconduct or inappropriate behaviours.

Alliance MLA Nuala McAllister had asked what further work could be done to address violence against women and girls. In reply, Mr Boutcher pointed to the Langdale Review and the Melia Report, which identified failings in the investigation into the murder of Katie Simpson, as shaping the PSNI’s plan.

He said the organisation is currently addressing the issue of violence against women and girls more than any other he is aware of, and stressed the need to live and breathe the approach rather than simply rely on strategies and policies.

Deputy Chief Constable Bobby Singleton told the board the dismissal rate for officers attending misconduct or special case hearings has risen from 54% to 79% in the last year. He said the increase likely reflects an improved understanding of the proportionality of cases being brought, not a target-driven exercise.

Mr Singleton added that the chief constable had completed three special case hearings in the last fortnight alone, and that where incontrovertible evidence emerges, it is now put before him at the earliest opportunity. He acknowledged a rise in misconduct investigations driven by greater reporting and awareness, but warned that levels of reporting around inappropriate behaviour remain absolutely inadequate and that significant work is still needed.